The Therapeutic Power of Art: A New Era for Italian Healthcare
Works of art, literary and cinematographic works, music, theatrical performances, activities in museums and those in archaeological parks: culture is a living resource and enjoying it has a positive impact on the well-being of the individual, with concrete effects demonstrated in terms of improving the quality of life. It is from this awareness that the Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Health was born which was passed today in the State-Regions Conference. Finally, Italy will equip itself with an instrument which, starting from many initiatives undertaken so far on the national territory, which with the establishment of a technical table we will survey to make the most of it and build models that can be replicated on a larger scale, will also be able to recognize culture’s ability to complement medical care as a therapeutic tool. This was stated by the Undersecretary of Culture Lucia Borgonzoni, speaking this morning at the State-Regions Conference for the information on the draft Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Health regarding the prescription of healing art.
Unlocking the Potential of Art Therapy
This initiative is a topic that the Undersecretary has been following with particular attention since 2018, with the last stage seeing the conference organized at the Collegio Romano last June, an opportunity to open a discussion between institutions, the healthcare world, universities, cultural operators, and the Third Sector. The objective is to arrive at univocal data, and no longer patchy, on the effectiveness of the enjoyment of beauty and social (cultural) prescription also in Italy, starting with the involvement of people suffering from pathologies such as neurodegenerative ones or who suffer from depressive states. Beauty not only cures but helps fight loneliness and sedentary lifestyle. According to estimates conducted in Great Britain by the University College of London, activities of museums involved in prescribing art therapy courses have led to a 37% reduction in GP consultation rates and a 27% reduction in hospital admissions. It is estimated that for every £1 invested in the prescribed arts there was a return ranging from £4 to £11.
A Collaborative Effort for a Healthier Society
Borgonzoni also wanted to thank “the ministers Alessandro Giuli and Orazio Schillaci and the governor Massimiliano Fedriga, in his capacity as president of the Conference of Regions and Autonomous Provinces, “for the collaboration and sensitivity shown on the topic”. The Undersecretary’s hope is that in Italy too, they will be able to have an impact on the economic and social system through this innovative approach to healthcare. By recognizing the therapeutic potential of art, Italy can pave the way for a more holistic and effective healthcare system. For more information on this groundbreaking initiative, visit Here